Children's Allergy & Sinus

Children’s Allergy Medicine

Many different allergy medicines are available over the counter, specifically for children. Children’s allergy medicine may provide relief from symptoms including runny nose, sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, cough, and upper respiratory congestion. A variety of dosage forms are offered at Walgreens in stores and online including liquid, chewable or disintegrating tablets, and sprays or drops. Symptom relief may last for 4-6 hours, 12 hours, or 24 hours, depending on the type of medicine. Oral medicine often comes in flavors such as cherry, grape, orange and bubblegum. Medicine should be kept out of reach of children in a safe place, particularly flavored medicine because children may want to eat or drink it.

Is allergy medicine safe for kids?

Children’s allergy medicine can offer relief for allergy symptoms but not all allergy medicine is appropriate for all ages. Even though a medicine may be approved for use in children, you should carefully follow the instructions on the package and as directed by your child’s healthcare provider. You should always check with your child’s healthcare provider or pharmacist before giving your child a new medicine. When given as directed, allergy medicine can offer safe and effective symptom relief for your child.

What age can children take allergy medicine?

Before considering a new medicine, ask your child’s healthcare provider if the medicine is appropriate for your child, especially for their age. Many children’s allergy medicines are approved for use in ages 6 years and older. Some are even approved for use in children older than age 2, depending on the product. For newborns and infants with nasal stuffiness, some nasal saline drops and aspirator products are approved for symptom relief. It is important that you follow all product instructions carefully, including the proper dose for your child’s age and weight.

Types of Allergy Medicine for Children

Children’s oral and nasal antihistamines, including loratadine, fexofenadine, cetirizine and diphenhydramine can alleviate upper respiratory symptoms from allergies. Some oral antihistamines may cause drowsiness so it’s helpful to only give these medicines at bedtime. Oral decongestants, with ingredients such as phenylephrine, are intended for congestion symptoms. Corticosteroid nasal sprays can be used for nasal allergy symptoms without causing drowsiness, depending on your child’s age.

Walgreens also offers children’s allergy medicines that are sugar-free, dye-free, alcohol-free and hypoallergenic. You can also find other helpful products for nasal stuffiness and congestion such as humidifiers and saline wipes or sprays. Ask your Walgreens pharmacist or healthcare provider which allergy medicines may be most appropriate for your child’s symptoms, age, and other medications they may be taking. Always carefully follow instructions on the package for age and dosage as well as instructions from your child’s healthcare provider.